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What Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a procedure that adds density and volume to your jawbone. Oral surgeons frequently perform this procedure in preparation for a dental implant.
To create a graft, an oral surgeon places bone material in an area where the bone is vulnerable to being reabsorbed into the jaw. These areas include sockets where teeth are missing, the sinuses, and other areas of the jawbone.
This procedure allows the jaw to grow around the scaffold provided by the grafted material. The bone grows stronger and can support implants or keep the jawbone from breaking down.
Procedures Offered
Here are examples of bone graft procedures used by oral surgeons:
Socket Preservation
Socket preservation before the placement of a dental implant is the most common reason for a bone graft. After socket preservation, the oral surgeon can easily place an implant post to replace a missing tooth.
Sinus Lift Surgery
Sinus lift surgery becomes necessary when the upper jaw is not high enough to place a dental implant. The surgeon lifts the sinus membrane and places a bone graft underneath to encourage more bone growth. After the graft has healed, the patient can get an implant in this area.
Rebuilding the Jaw Before Dentures
The alveolar ridge (where the tooth sockets lie) sometimes becomes worn down when patients have been missing teeth for a long time. Oral surgeons can place grafts to build up these areas in preparation for holding dentures.
Periodontal Surgery
Advanced gum disease eventually wears down the gums and the bone underneath. To prevent tooth loss, oral surgeons place bone grafts in vulnerable areas.
Why Choose Fullerton Oral Surgery?
We take good care of our patients by ensuring they have the best oral surgery care in a comfortable setting. We treat our patients with kindness, respect, and professionalism.
FAQs About Bone Grafting
Here are patient questions:
Where does the new bone that was introduced in the surgery originate?
The bone graft material may originate from a human or animal tissue bank. It may also come from synthetic material. It is crushed into granules and demineralized.
How long does it take for a bone graft to heal before I can get a dental implant?
It generally takes 6 months for the bone to grow at the surgery site. After 6 months, you can place a dental implant.
Is it difficult to heal from a bone graft?
A bone graft is a fairly straightforward procedure where healing is concerned. You may have some pain, bruising, and swelling in the days following the procedure. The surgeon will instruct you to take over-the-counter pain medication, and you may get antibiotics. Bone growth will happen under your gums. The gum will quickly heal.